The Darkness - Love Is Only A Feeling (Must Destroy)
UK release date: 22 March 2004
Whatever you think about the nation's (and now America's it seems) favourite pantomime rockers, there's no denying that The Darkness have got marketing that is more juggernaut than simple machine. Whether it's appearing on film soundtracks (School Of Rock etc.), hogging billboards in every far flung corner of the country, or sending out nicely packaged promo CDs to easily-excited journos (this one's in a big, heart-shaped box), this lot are, quite simply, everywhere.
On the face of it, Love Is Only A Feeling is a somewhat pointless single release, given that everyone who wanted the album has probably got it already. However, its unashamedly FM radio car stereo rock sound could draw in some hapless listeners who have thus far remained immune to the inevitable.
Of course, this being The Darkness, it's a pure rip-off, albeit a masterfully executed one. Remember that staple of rock pub jukeboxes, More Than A Feeling by Boston? Well, Love Is Only A Feeling (the clue's in the name, kids), shamelessly borrows the twin guitar sound and bits 'n' bobs of the quiet verse / mega-anthemic chorus. Do I like it? Begrudgingly...
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